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Organizational capacity, social innovation and organizational performance in sport for development and peace organizations
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DOI：10.1080/14413523.2026.2648343.png)
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Abstract
En 中文
Organizational capacity is a concept frequently emphasized by funders, resource providers and practitioners alike, however, theoretical advancements in capacity and its relationship with organizational performance remain scarce in nonprofit contexts, including sport organizations. We examine the relationships between organizational capacity, social innovation and perceived organizational performance in the context of sport for development and peace (SDP) nonprofits. Specifically, we analyze cross-sectional survey data collected during 2019 from a global sample of 161 organizations. Organizational capacity was measured through a set of behavioral-anchored rating scales across five capacity dimensions. Social innovation was measured across three dimensions using a scale designed for direct human service nonprofits, and perceived organizational performance was measured through an established scale designed for nonprofits. Structural equation modeling provides empirical support for our theorized model regarding nonprofits' capacity-innovation-performance triad. A key contribution of this study is the importance of organizational capacity for nonprofit performance and the positive mediating role of social innovation. Control variables played a minimal role in the full model apart from organizations located in Africa. Our research contributes to theory by advancing social innovation can serve as a critical process for amplifying the relationship between existing capacities and performance. Broadly speaking, our study highlights the importance of organizational capacity for any SDP leader interested in developing innovative and high performing nonprofits. Our results warrant a shift in mindset toward strategically viewing innovation as a vital organizational ability for achieving desired outcomes by translating existing capacities into organizational performance.
Keywords:
Capacity outcomes
nonprofit performance
human service nonprofits
Sport for Good
social impact
strategic management
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